from Aaron Portzline of Puck-Rakers,

The Jackets have reportedly talked with the Calgary Flames seeking permission to speak with Miikka Kiprusoff, hoping to talk him out of retirement. Are they preparing for life without Bobrovsky? Or just trying to spur Bobrovsky into signing and keeping his spot in Columbus?

Kekalainen said he "won't respond to speculation," which doesn't exactly deny the report. Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos had it first, and he's very trustworthy.

On this goes, with no end in sight. Bobrovsky is armed with leverage; the Blue Jackets, with the Kiprusoff move, may be trying to gain some of their own. Bobrovsky can negotiate with KHL teams beginning July 1. He can negotiate with other NHL clubs, as a restricted free agent, on July 5.

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